“We have hundreds of pets that are already ready to leave the building. That means they’re vaccinated, they’re spayed and neutered, they have a microchip. So, they can go home with you today for free,” said Karen Hirsch with Lifeline Animal Project.

The shelter says there are more than 500 dogs and 60 plus cats that they’re calling MVPs, or most valuable pets.

The county wants to clear the animal cages, so crews can get to work clearing the ceilings. That’s where the rats are living.

“We’re getting rid of all the tiles and the structure that’s holding it,” Hirsch said. “We’re going to have an open kind of concept area, that way rats can’t live up in the ceilings anymore.”